AISSEE 2026: Applications Now Live for Sainik Schools
The National Testing Agency (NTA) has officially kicked off the registration process for the All India Sainik Schools Entrance Examination (AISSEE) 2026. As of October 10, 2025, aspiring students can begin their applications for admission into Classes 6 and 9 across various Sainik Schools and New Sainik Schools nationwide.
You can submit your application online through the official NTA website. Be sure to complete the process by the deadline of October 30, 2025. A dedicated correction window will be open from November 2 to November 4, 2025, allowing for any necessary adjustments. The highly anticipated entrance examination is slated for January 2026, with the precise date to be announced soon.
Admissions in Established and New Sainik Schools
The AISSEE 2026 serves as the gateway for admissions to both Class 6 and Class 9 in 33 well-established Sainik Schools. Furthermore, it facilitates Class 6 admissions in all 69 newly approved Sainik Schools, and Class 9 admissions in 19 of these new schools that will begin enrolling students for the 2026–27 academic year.
For Class 6 applicants, the age requirement is between 10 and 12 years as of March 31, 2026. For those targeting Class 9, candidates must be between 13 and 15 years old by the same date.
Exam Format and Structure
The AISSEE 2026 will be conducted offline, using a traditional pen-and-paper method with OMR sheets, across 190 cities throughout India.
The Class 6 examination will run for 150 minutes and will be available in 13 languages, including English and Hindi. It comprises 125 multiple-choice questions, totaling 300 marks. The subject-wise distribution is as follows:
- Language: 25 questions (50 marks)
- Mathematics: 50 questions (150 marks)
- Intelligence: 25 questions (50 marks)
- General Knowledge: 25 questions (50 marks)
The Class 9 examination will be conducted exclusively in English and will last 180 minutes. It features 150 questions, accounting for a total of 400 marks. Here’s the breakdown:
- Mathematics: 50 questions (200 marks)
- English: 25 questions (50 marks)
- Intelligence: 25 questions (50 marks)
- General Science: 25 questions (50 marks)
- Social Science: 25 questions (50 marks)
Application Fees and Qualification Criteria
The application fee for General, OBC (NCL), Defence personnel, and Ex-Servicemen categories is Rs 850. For SC and ST categories, the fee is Rs 700.
To qualify for admission, students must achieve a minimum of 25% in each section and an overall aggregate of 40%. This minimum score requirement is waived for SC and ST candidates.
Admission Pathways and Seat Availability
For Class 6 admission in New Sainik Schools, there are two main routes:
- Category A (40% Route): Open to both boys and girls. Details on seat availability for girls can be found on the respective school’s website.
- Category B (60% Route): Also open to girls. Candidates must currently be studying in an approved New Sainik School and must have passed or be appearing for Class 5 by March 31, 2026.
For Class 9 admission in 19 New Sainik Schools:
- Only students who have successfully passed Class 8 from a recognized school within the Sainik School vertical are eligible.
- Admission is offered under the 40% route and to fill any remaining vacancies.
Simple Steps to Apply Online for AISSEE 2026
- Visit the official website: Navigate to the NTA Sainik School Society portal.
- Click on the registration link: Find and select the “Apply for AISSEE 2026” option to begin your registration by providing essential personal details.
- Fill the application form: Thoroughly complete the application with all required academic, personal, and exam-related information.
- Upload required documents: Submit scanned copies of your photo, signature, and any other necessary certificates, ensuring they adhere to the specified format.
- Pay the application fee: Finalize your application by paying the fee using a debit card, credit card, net banking, or UPI. Then, submit the form.
Result Declaration and Future Updates
The results for AISSEE 2026 are anticipated to be announced approximately four to six weeks following the examination. Important updates regarding admit card downloads, designated exam cities, and result announcements will be promptly published on the official NTA websites. Candidates are strongly encouraged to regularly check these portals for the latest information and to carefully read the entire information bulletin before applying.